CABINET OFFICE

Departmental Simplification Plans

Patrick McFadden: The Government will today publish Simplification Plans for 18 Departments and Government agencies. The Health and Safety Executive published its plan in October, taking the total number of plans published this autumn to 19.
	The plans set out more than 500 initiatives which, when delivered, will result in a reduction in administrative burdens and policy costs for the UK economy as a whole. The plans commit departments to cutting administrative burdens for business, voluntary and charitable organisations by at least 25 per cent. by 2010, with estimated savings of £2 billion already identified in the plans.
	This ground-breaking initiative marks the start of a rolling programme of simplification. These plans will make individual departments accountable for the burdens they impose. Departments will update plans annually in order to ensure on-going year-on-year reductions in the burdens they impose.
	Alongside the package of simplification plans, the Government will also commit to several important supporting measures. These include an upgrading of the web portal through which simplification ideas can be submitted, a campaign to identify regulations which conflict or overlap, and benefits of the flow of regulation, and annual updates on progress against the simplification agenda.
	Copies of all 19 Simplification Plans, and relevant supporting documents, have been placed in the Library for the reference of Members and are available in the Vote Office.

DEFENCE

Royal Navy and Royal Marine Personnel

Derek Twigg: Recent media reports have alleged, incorrectly, that Royal Navy and Royal Marine personnel have had a cut in their allowances. I wish to advise the House of the current situation.
	Due to an inaccurate Royal Navy Information Campaign, up to 4,260 Royal Navy and Royal Marine personnel were led to believe that on transition to Joint Personnel Administration on 1 November 2006 they would receive higher rates of Longer Separation Allowance than they were entitled to. Personnel wrongly assumed that their unpaid qualifying service for Longer Service at Sea Bonus would count towards their new rate of separation allowance from 1 November. This was identified by the Royal Navy in October 2006 and has been carefully considered by the Services and Ministers. It was agreed that the decisions taken in 2003 to target better Service allowances were correct, and that it was imperative that Royal Navy and Royal Marine personnel were treated fairly in comparison to their Army and Royal Air Force colleagues once they were eligible for the new allowances package. Therefore, on 1 November the Second Sea Lord wrote to all Royal Navy and Royal Marine Commanding Officers advising them that this oversight was regrettable, but did not justify a change in policy. Commanding Officers were asked to remind all of their personnel that none would see a cut in their separation allowances as a result of this decision and that the new allowances package was aimed directly at benefiting most those personnel who experience frequent periods of separation.
	The new allowances package, for which all Royal Navy and Royal Marine personnel currently serving in Afghanistan are eligible, benefits all three Services. Under this new policy, personnel are entitled to Longer Separation Allowance that has 14 levels of payment, many higher than previously existed when there was only three levels of separation allowance.
	The House has already noted that in order to recognise further the work of our Armed Services, we have introduced the new Operational Allowance of some £2,240 for a six month tour of duty and this is alongside a much improved Operational Welfare Package. In addition to these positive changes, I also announced on 3 December that the Initial Qualifying Period of 100 days for separation allowance will be abolished from 1 April 2007. This is all positive action taken by Her Majesty's Government to appreciate even more the excellent work of our Armed Services.

HEALTH

Autumn Performance Report

Patricia Hewitt: The Department of Health's 2006 autumn performance report (Cm. 6985) has today been laid before Parliament. Copies have been placed in the Library. It shows the progress my Department has made towards achieving its public service agreement targets.
	The document shows that there have been further improvements in access to services. Patients can now expect to wait no more than three months for an outpatient appointment and six months for an inpatient appointment. By the end of 2008 patients will wait no more than 18 weeks from general practitioner referral to start of treatment.
	We are also providing care to those most in need. We are supporting more older people to live in their own homes, improving the care of those with long term conditions, providing better mental health services for children and adolescents and treating increased numbers of those with drug problems.
	We are also improving health. Death rates from heart disease among people under 75 have fallen by 36 per cent. since the baseline of 1995-97; deaths from cancer have fallen by 16 per cent. over the same period. These are significant achievements.
	These are just some of the successes of the NHS over the past year. These improvements have been made in a demanding year through the hard work, skills and passion of hundreds of thousands of staff, and new and better ways of delivering services.
	The Department has also today published 'The NHS in England: the operating framework 2007-08'. Copies have been placed in the Library.
	The document is designed to help local NHS staff shape services around the needs of their local communities. It explains why there is a need to continue embedding reform in 2007/08, signalling a farther shift towards building a self-improving system driven by local priorities.

Employment, Social Policy, Health and  Consumer Affairs Council

Caroline Flint: The Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council met on 30 November to 1 December. The health issues were taken on 30 November, where my right hon. Friend the Minister of State for health services represented the United Kingdom. Items on the main agenda were the amended proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a second programme of community action in the field of health (2007-2013); health in all policies; the EU strategy to reduce alcohol related harm; international health regulations; and the work of the Commission's high level group on health services and medical care.
	Political agreement was reached on the amended proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a second programme of community action in the field of health (2007-2013).
	Council conclusions were adopted on health in all policies. These focus on the importance of addressing the health impact of policies developed by other sectors.
	Council conclusions were also adopted on the EU strategy to reduce alcohol related harm. This was followed by a policy debate on the strategy. The UK joined widespread support for the approach it outlines, and described how the Government, industry and stakeholders are working together in the UK, including through the social responsibility standards on the production and sale of alcohol.
	There was a lunchtime discussion on the international health regulations (IHR), where Ministers supported a note prepared by the presidency on the Commission's recent communication on the Community's role in the implementation of the IHR. The note underlined the need for further discussion and clarification before agreement to a Community role. Ministers also supported a further note produced by the presidency, underlining the importance of the non-legislative collaboration between EU health systems taken forward by the Commission's high level group on health services and medical care.
	Under any other business, the Council heard a progress report from the presidency on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on advanced therapy medicinal products and amending Directive 2001/83/EC and Regulation (EC) No 726/2004. This will continue to be taken forward by the Council Pharmaceutical Working Group during the German presidency.
	On the eve of the Council, the Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection, Markos Kyprianou, hosted an initial exchange of views with health Ministers (which my right hon. Friend attended) on the communication from the Commission regarding Community action on health services.

HOME DEPARTMENT

Control Order Powers

John Reid: Section 14(1) of the Prevention of Terrorism Act 2005 (the 2005 Act) requires me to report to Parliament as soon as reasonably practicable after the end of every relevant three-month period on the exercise of the control order powers during that period.
	On 18 October I asked Lord Carlile to consider whether any improvements could be made to the quarterly report. I am today placing a copy of Lord Carlile's report on this matter, together with a copy of this statement (being my formal response to his recommendations), in the Library of the House. It will also be available on the Home Office web site at:
	http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/securitv/terrorism-and-the-law/prevention-of-terrorism/?version=1
	Lord Carlile makes a number of sensible recommendations to increase the information that can be safely placed in the public domain through the quarterly written ministerial statement. I am happy to accept them, with the caveat that we need to avoid publishing any information that could lead to the identification of an individual who is subject to an anonymity order.
	The format of this and future quarterly reports has been revised in the light of Lord Carlile's review so as to include some additional information. The level of information provided will, however, always be subject to slight variations based on the operational advice of the police.
	Control orders continue to be an essential tool to protect the public from terrorism, particularly where it is not possible to prosecute individuals for terrorist-related activity and, in the case of foreign nationals, where they cannot be removed from the UK.
	During the period 11 September to 10 December 2006, one order was made and, on 21 November 2006, served on a British citizen with the permission of the court under section 3(l)(a) of the 2005 Act.
	Three further orders were made but have not yet been served, two of which were in respect of British citizens. Orders may be made but not served because they were made on a contingency basis, and the individual has been either charged and remanded in custody, or convicted and sentenced to prison, or deported. Alternatively, there may be police operational reasons for not serving an order.
	Two control orders already in force at the beginning of this reporting period were revoked and new orders made and, on 12 September 2006, served in their place.
	EWCA Civ 1141.
	No control orders have expired since the last report.
	In total, therefore, there are 16 control orders currently in force, seven of which are in respect of British citizens. Eight of the individuals live in the Metropolitan police area; the rest fall within other police force areas.
	Fifteen modifications of control order obligations were made, and four requests to modify a control order obligation were refused during the period. A right of appeal exists in section 10(3) of the 2005 Act against a decision by the Secretary of State not to modify an obligation contained in a control order. This has not yet been exercised in respect of these refusals.
	Control order obligations are tailored to the individual concerned, and are based on the risk he or she poses. Each control order is kept under review to ensure their continuance and obligations remain necessary and proportionate. Specifically, as Lord Carlile recommended in his February 2006 report on the operation of the control order system, the Home Office has established a review group, with representation from law enforcement and intelligence agencies, to keep the obligations in every control order under regular (quarterly), formal and audited review.
	Breaches of control orders could arise from any obligation, and could include arriving home after commencement of curfew period or breaking geographical boundary restrictions on movement. During this period, two individuals were charged with breach of control order obligations. Both were charged with failure to comply with a daily reporting requirement; one was also charged with failure to notify the Home Office of a change of residence.
	As Parliament will be aware, one individual subject to a control order has absconded. Another individual absconded after a control order was made (i.e. signed) against that individual, but before the order had been served. This order is therefore not in operation. Finding these individuals is an operational matter for the police, and investigations are ongoing. Anonymity orders are in place for both individuals. The anonymity order is imposed by the court and can only be lifted by the court. For operational reasons, the Government are not currently seeking to overturn the anonymity orders.
	On Thursday 26 October a hearing took place in the administrative court to consider overturning the anonymity orders in place for the individuals who absconded. On police advice the Home Office resisted this application and the judge upheld the anonymity orders for the two individuals.
	One control order review started on 23 November in the High Court and final written submissions are being served. These proceedings are pursuant to section 3(10) of the Prevention of Terrorism Act 2005. We await the outcome.

WORK AND PENSIONS

Benefit Uprating

John Hutton: The proposed rates of benefit for 2007 are set out in the following table. The annual uprating of benefits will take place for state pension and most other benefits in the first full week of the tax year. In 2007, this will be the week beginning 9 April. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland proposes to introduce similar changes for Northern Ireland.
	
		
			 Benefit Uprating 
			 (Weekly rates unless otherwise shown)  Rates - 2006  Rates - 2007  
			 Attendance Allowance   
			 higher rate 62.25 64.50 
			 lower rate 41.65 43.15 
			
			 Carer's Allowance 46.95 48.65 
			
			 Council Tax Benefit   
			 Personal allowances   
			 Single   
			 18 to 24 45.50 46.85 
			 25 or over 57.45 59.15 
			
			 lone parent - 18 or over 57.45 59.15 
			
			 couple - one or both over 18 90.10 92.80 
			 dependent children   
			 from birth to September following   
			 16th birthday 45.58 47.45 
			 from September following 16th birthday to   
			 day before 20(th) birthday 45.58 47.45 
			
			 pensioner (from October 2003)   
			 single / lone parent - 60 — 64 114.05 119.05 
			 couple - one or both 60 — 64 174.05 181.70 
			 single / lone parent - 65 and over 131.95 138.10 
			 couple - one or both 65 and over 197.65 207.00 
			
			 Premiums   
			
			 Family 16.25 16.43 
			 family (lone parent rate) 22.20 22.20 
			 child under 1 10.50 10.50 
			
			 pensioner   
			 single 56.60 59.90 
			 couple 83.95 88.90 
			
			 pensioner (enhanced)   
			 single 56.60 59.90 
			 couple 83.95 88.90 
			
			 pensioner (higher)   
			 single 56.60 59.90 
			 couple 83.95 88.90 
			
			 disability   
			 single 24.50 25.25 
			 couple 34.95 36.00 
			 enhanced disability premium single rate 11.95 12.30 
			 disabled child rate 18.13 18.76 
			 couple rate 17.25 17.75 
			
			 severe disability   
			 single 46.75 48.45 
			 couple (lower rate) 46.75 48.45 
			 couple (higher rate) 93.50 96.90 
			
			 disabled child 45.08 46.69 
			
			 carer 26.35 27.15 
			
			 Non-dependant deductions   
			 aged 18 or over and in remunerative work   
			 gross income: £353 or more 6.95 6.95 
			 gross income: £283 - £352.99 5.80 5.80 
			 gross income: £164 - £282.99 4.60 4.60 
			 gross income less than £164 2.30 2.30 
			 others, aged 18 or over 2.30 2.30 
			
			 Alternative maximum Council Tax Benefit   
			 second adult on IS, JSA(IB) or Pension Credit 25% of Council Tax 25% of Council Tax 
			 first adult(s) student(s)  100% of Council Tax 
			 second adult's gross income:   
			 under £162 15% of Council Tax 15% of Council Tax 
			 £162 to £209.99 7.5% of Council Tax 7.5% of Council Tax 
			
			 Capital   
			 upper limit 16,000.00 16,000.00 
			 amount disregarded 6,000.00 6,000.00 
			 upper limit (claimant/partner 60 or over) 16,000.00 16,000.00 
			 upper limit (PC guarantee) from October 2003 No limit No limit 
			 amount disregarded (claimant/partner 60 or over) 6,000.00 6,000.00 
			 child disregard 3.000.00 3,000.00 
			 upper limit of RC/NH 16,000.00 16,000.00 
			 amount disregarded of RC/NH 10,000.00 10,000.00 
			
			 Tariff income   
			 £1 for every complete £250 or part   
			 thereof between amount of capital   
			 disregarded and capital upper limit   
			
			 Tariff income (claimant/partner 60 or over) from October 2003   
			 £1 for every £500 or part thereof between   
			 amount of capital disregard and capital   
			 upper limit   
			
			 Earnings disregards   
			 where disability premium awarded 20.00 20.00 
			 various specified employments 20.00 20.00 
			 lone parent 25.00 25.00 
			 where the claimant has a partner 10.00 10.00 
			 single claimant 5.00 5.00 
			 where carer premium awarded 20.00 20.00 
			 childcare charges 175.00 175.00 
			 childcare charges (2 or more children) 300.00 300.00 
			 Other income disregards   
			 maintenance disregard 15.00 15.00 
			 war disablement pension and war   
			 widow's pension 10.00 10.00 
			 Armed Forces Compensation Scheme 10.00 10.00 
			 student loan 10.00 10.00 
			 student's covenanted income 5.00 5.00 
			 income from boarders:   
			 disregard the fixed amount (£20) plus   
			 50% of the balance of the charge 20.00 20.00 
			 additional earnings disregard 14.90 15.45 
			
			 Expenses for subtenants   
			 furnished or unfurnished 4.00 4.00 
			 where heating is included, additional 11.95 15.45 
			
			 Dependency Increases   
			 Adult Dependency Increases   
			 For spouse or person looking after children, with:   
			
			 State Pension on own insurance, 50.50 52.30 
			 long term incapacity benefit, unemployability supplement 46.95 48.65 
			
			
			 severe disablement allowance 28.25 29.25 
			
			 carers allowance 28.05 29.05 
			
			 short-term incapacity benefit if beneficiary over   
			 state pension age 45.15 46.80 
			
			 maternity allowance/short-term incapacity benefit 36.60 37.90 
			
			 Child Dependency Increases, with:   
			 State pension, widowed mothers allowance, widowed parents allowance,   
			 short-term incapacity benefit at the higher rate and   
			 long term incapacity benefit carers allowance,   
			 severe disability allowance, higher rate industrial death   
			 benefit, unemployability supplement and 11.35 11.35 
			 short-term incapacity benefit if beneficiary   
			 over pension age   
			
			 NB - The Overlapping Benefits Regulations provide for the rate   
			 of child dependency increases   
			 to be adjusted where the increase   
			 is payable for the eldest eligible child for whom   
			 Child benefit is also payable. The weekly rate of the increase   
			 is reduced by the differential (less £3.65 from April 2004)   
			 between the rate of Child Benefit payable for the oldest eligible child   
			 and that payable for a subsequent child.   
			
			 Disability Living Allowance   
			
			 Care Component   
			 Highest 62.25 64.50 
			 Middle 41.65 43.15 
			 Lowest 16.50 17.10 
			
			 Mobility Component   
			 Higher 43.45 45.00 
			 Lower 16.50 17.10 
			
			 Earnings Rules   
			
			 Carers Allowance 84.00 87.00 
			
			 Limit of earnings from councillor's allowance 81.00 86.00 
			
			 Permitted work earnings limit 81.00 86.00 
			
			 Industrial injuries unemployability 4,212.00 4,472.00 
			 supplement permitted earnings level   
			 (annual amount)   
			
			 Adult dependency increases with:   
			
			 short-term incapacity benefit where claimant is   
			 (a) under state pension age 36.60 37.90 
			 (b) over state pension age 45.15 46.80 
			 maternity allowance 36.60 37.90 
			
			 state pension,   
			 long-term incapacity benefit,   
			 disablement allowance, unemployability supplement where dependant   
			 (a) is living with claimant 57.45 59.15 
			 (b) still qualifies for the tapered 45.09 45.09 
			 earnings rule   
			
			 state pension, 50.50 52.30 
			 long-term incapacity benefit   
			 and unemployability supplement where dependant not living with claimant 46.95 48.65 
			
			 severe disablement allowance where   
			 dependant not living with claimant 28.25 29.25 
			
			 carers allowance 28.05 29.05 
			
			 Child dependency increases   
			 level at which CDIs are affected by   
			 earnings of claimant's spouse or partner   
			
			 for first child 175.00 180.00 
			 for each subsequent child 23.00 24.00 
			
			 Housing Benefit   
			 Personal allowances   
			
			 Single   
			 16 to 24 45.50 46.85 
			 25 or over 57.45 59.15 
			
			 lone parent   
			 under 18 45.50 46.85 
			 18 or over 57.45 59.15 
			
			 couple   
			 both under 18 68.65 70.70 
			 one or both 18 or over 90.10 92.80 
			
			
			 dependent children   
			 from birth to September   
			 following 16th birthday 45.58 47.45 
			 from September following 16th birthday to   
			 day before 20th birthday 45.58 47.45 
			
			 pensioner (from October 2003)   
			 single lone parent - 60 - 64 114.05 119.05 
			 couple - one or both 60 - 64 174.05 181.70 
			 single / lone parent - 65 and over 131.95 138.10 
			 couple - one or both 65 and over 197.65 207.00 
			
			 Premiums   
			
			 family 16.25 16.43 
			 family (lone parent rate) 22.20 22.20 
			 child under 1 10.50 10.50 
			
			 pensioner   
			 single 56.60 59.90 
			 couple 83.95 88.90 
			
			 pensioner (enhanced)   
			 single 56.60 59.90 
			 couple 83.95 88.90 
			
			 pensioner (higher)   
			 single 56.60 59.90 
			 couple 83.95 88.90 
			
			 disability   
			 single 24.50 25.25 
			 couple 34.95 36.00 
			 enhanced disability premium single rate 11.95 12.30 
			 disabled child rate 18.13 18.76 
			 couple rate 17.25 17.75 
			
			 severe disability   
			 single 46.75 48.45 
			 couple (lower rate) 46.75 48.45 
			 couple (higher rate) 93.50 96.90 
			
			 disabled child 45.08 46.69 
			 carer 26.35 27.15 
			
			 Non-dependant deductions   
			 rent rebates and allowances   
			
			 aged 25 and over, in receipt of Income Support   
			 or income based Job Seekers Allowance   
			 aged 18 or over, not in remunerative work   
			 - gross income less than £111 7.40 7.40 
			
			 aged 18 or over and in remunerative work   
			 - gross income: less than £111 7.40 7.40 
			 - gross income: £111 to £163.99 17.00 17.00 
			 - gross income: £164 to £212.99 23.35 23.35 
			 - gross income: £213 to £282.99 38.20 38.20 
			 - gross income: £283 to £352.99 43.50 43.50 
			 - gross income: £353 and above 47.75 47.75 
			
			 Service charges for fuel   
			 heating 11.95 15.45 
			 hot water 1.40 1.80 
			 lighting 0.95 1.25 
			 cooking 1.40 1.80 
			
			 Amount ineligible for meals   
			 three or more meals a day   
			 single claimant 20.50 21.10 
			 each person in family aged 16 or over 20.50 21.10 
			 each child under 16 10.35 10.65 
			 less than three meals a day   
			 single claimant 13.65 14.05 
			 each person in family aged 16 or over 13.65 14.05 
			 each child under 16 6.85 7.05 
			
			 breakfast only - claimant and each   
			 member of family 2.50 2.60 
			
			 Capital   
			 upper limit 16,000.00 16,000.00 
			 amount disregarded 6,000.00 6,000.00 
			 upper limit (claimant/partner 60 or over) 16,000.00 16,000.00 
			 upper limit (PC guarantee) from October 2003 No limit No limit 
			 amount disregarded (claimant/partner 60 or over) 6,000.00 6,000.00 
			 child disregard 3,000.00 3,000.00 
			 upper limit of RC/NH 16,000.00 16,000.00 
			 amount disregarded of RC/NH 10,000.00 10,000.00 
			
			 Tariff income   
			 £1 for every complete £250 or part thereof between   
			 amount disregarded and capital upper limit   
			
			 Tariff income (claimant/partner 60 or over) from October 2003   
			 £1 for every £500 or part thereof between   
			 amount of capital disregard and capital   
			 upper limit   
			
			 Earnings disregards   
			 where disability premium awarded 20.00 20.00 
			 various specified employments 20.00 20.00 
			 lone parent 25.00 25.00 
			 where the claimant has a partner 10.00 10.00 
			 single claimant 5.00 5.00 
			 where carer premium awarded 20.00 20.00 
			 childcare charges 175.00 175.00 
			 childcare charges (2 or more children) 300.00 300.00 
			
			 Other income disregards   
			 maintenance disregard 15.00 15.00 
			 war disablement pension and war   
			 widow's pension 10.00 10.00 
			 Armed Forces Compensation Scheme 10.00 10.00 
			 student loan 10.00 10.00 
			 student's covenanted income 5.00 5.00 
			 income from boarders:   
			 disregard the fixed amount (£20) plus   
			 50% of the balance of the charge 20.00 20.00 
			 additional earnings disregard 14.90 15.45 
			
			 Expenses for subtenants   
			 furnished or unfurnished 4.00 4.00 
			 where heating is included, additional 11.95 15.45 
			
			 Maximum rates for recovery of overpayments   
			 ordinary overpayments 8.70 9.00 
			
			 where claimant convicted of fraud 11.60 12.00 
			 Incapacity Benefit   
			
			 Long-term Incapacity Benefit 78.50 81.35 
			
			 Short-term Incapacity Benefit   
			 (under state pension age)   
			 lower rate 59.20 61.35 
			 higher rate 70.05 72.55 
			
			 Short-term Incapacity Benefit   
			 (over state pension age)   
			 lower rate 75.35 78.05 
			 higher rate 78.50 81.35 
			
			 Increase of Long-term Incapacity Benefit for age   
			 higher rate 16.50 17.10 
			 lower rate 8.25 8.55 
			
			 Invalidity Allowance (Transitional)   
			 higher rate 16.50 17.10 
			 middle rate 10.60 11.00 
			 lower rate 5.30 5.50 
			
			 Income Support   
			
			 Personal Allowances   
			 single   
			 under 18 - usual rate 34.60 35.65 
			 under 18 - higher rate payable   
			 in specific circumstances 45.50 46.85 
			 18 to 24 45.50 46.85 
			 25 or over 57.45 59.15 
			
			 lone parent   
			 under 18 - usual rate 34.60 35.65 
			 under 18 - higher rate payable   
			 in specific circumstances 45.50 46.85 
			 18 or over 57.45 59.15 
			
			 couple   
			 both under 18 34.60 35.65 
			 both under 18, one disabled 45.50 46.85 
			 both under 18, with responsibility for a child 68.65 70.70 
			 one under 18, one 18-24 45.50 46.85 
			 one under 18, one 25+ 57.45 59.15 
			 both 18 or over 90.10 92.80 
			
			 dependent children   
			 birth to September following   
			 16th birthday 45.58 47.45 
			 from September following 16th birthday to   
			 day before 20th birthday 45.58 47.45 
			
			 Premiums   
			
			 family 16.25 16.43 
			 family (lone parent rate) 16.25 16.43 
			
			 pensioner   
			
			 couple 83.95 88.90 
			
			 pensioner (enhanced)   
			 couple 83.95 88.90 
			
			 pensioner (higher)   
			 couple 83.95 88.90 
			
			 disability   
			 single 24.50 25.25 
			 couple 34.95 36.00 
			 enhanced disability premium single rate 11.95 12.30 
			 disabled child rate 18.13 18.76 
			 couple rate 17.25 17.75 
			
			 severe disability   
			 single 46.75 48.45 
			 couple (lower rate) 46.75 48.45 
			 couple (higher rate) 93.50 96.90 
			
			 disabled child 45.08 46.69 
			 carer 26.35 27.15 
			
			
			 Housing costs   
			 deductions for non-dependants   
			 aged 25 and over, in receipt of Income Support   
			 aged 25 and over, in receipt of Income Support   
			 or income based Job Seekers Allowance   
			 aged 18 or over, not in work 7.40 7.40 
			
			 aged 18 or over and in remunerative work   
			 - gross income: less than £111 7.40 7.40 
			 - gross income: £111 to £163.99 17.00 17.00 
			 - gross income: £164 to £212.99 23.35 23.35 
			 - gross income: £213 to £282.99 38.20 38.20 
			 - gross income: £283 to £352.99 43.50 43.50 
			 - gross income: £353 and above 47.75 47.75 
			
			 Deduction for third party payments   
			 arrears of housing, fuel and water costs   
			 council tax etc 2.90 3.00 
			
			 Child support maintenance deduction. contribution towards maintenance (CTM)   
			 deductions for child maintenance (CTM) standard 5.80 6.00 
			 deductions for child maintenance (CTM) lower 2.90 3.00 
			
			 Arrears of Community Charge   
			 court order against claimant 2.90 3.00 
			
			 court order against couple 4.55 4.65 
			
			 Third party deductions 19.60 20.45 
			 personal expenses allowance   
			
			 Third party deduction for fine or compensation order   
			 standard rate 5.00 5.00 
			 lower rate 2.90 3.00 
			
			 Maximum rates for recovery of overpayments   
			 ordinary overpayments 8.70 9.00 
			
			 where claimant convicted of fraud 11.60 12.00 
			
			 Relevant sum for strikers 31.00 32.00 
			
			 Capital   
			 upper limit 16,000.00 16,000.00 
			 amount disregarded 6,000.00 6,000.00 
			 upper limit (partner 60 or over) 16,000.00 16,000.00 
			 amount disregarded (partner 60 or over) 6,000.00 6,000.00 
			 child's limit 3,000.00 3,000.00 
			 upper limit (RC/NH) 16,000.00 16,000.00 
			 amount disregarded (RC/NH) 10,000.00 10,000.00 
			
			 Tariff income   
			 £1 for every complete £250 or part   
			 thereof between amount of capital   
			 disregarded and capital upper limit   
			
			
			 Disregards   
			 standard earnings 5.00 5.00 
			 couples earnings 10.00 10.00 
			 higher earnings 20.00 20.00 
			 war disablement pension and war   
			 widow's pension 10.00 10.00 
			 Armed Forces Compensation Scheme 10.00 10.00 
			 student loan 10.00 10.00 
			 student's covenanted income 5.00 5.00 
			 income from boarders:   
			 disregard the fixed amount (£20) plus   
			 50% of the balance of the charge 20.00 20.00 
			
			 Expenses for subtenants   
			 furnished or unfurnished 4.00 4.00 
			 where heating is included, additional 11.95 15.45 
			
			 Industrial Death Benefit   
			 Widow's pension   
			 higher rate 84.25 87.30 
			 lower rate 25.28 26.19 
			 Widower's pension 84.25 87.30 
			
			 Industrial Injuries Disablement Pension   
			 18 and over, or under 18 with dependants   
			 100% 127.10 131.70 
			 90% 114.39 118.53 
			 80% 101.68 105.36 
			 70% 88.97 92.19 
			 60% 76.26 79.02 
			 50% 63.55 65.85 
			 40% 50.84 52.68 
			 30% 38.13 39.51 
			 20% 25.42 26.34 
			
			
			 Under 18   
			 100% 77.90 80.70 
			 90% 70.11 72.63 
			 80% 62.32 64.56 
			 70% 54.53 56.49 
			 60% 46.74 48.42 
			 50% 38.95 40.35 
			 40% 31.16 32.28 
			 30% 23.37 24.21 
			 20% 15.58 16.14 
			
			 Maximum life gratuity (lump sum) 8,450.00 8,750.00 
			
			 Unemployability Supplement 78.50 81.35 
			 plus where appropriate an increase   
			 for early incapacity   
			 higher rate 16.50 17.10 
			 middle rate 10.60 11.00 
			 lower rate 5.30 5.50 
			
			 Maximum reduced earnings allowance 50.84 52.68 
			
			 Maximum retirement allowance 12.71 13.17 
			
			 Constant attendance allowance   
			 exceptional rate 101.80 105.40 
			 intermediate rate 76.35 79.05 
			 normal maximum rate 50.90 52.70 
			 part-time rate 25.45 26.35 
			
			 Exceptionally severe disablement allowance 50.90 52.70 
			
			 Jobseekers Allowance   
			
			 Contribution based JSA — Personal rates   
			 under 18 34.60 35.65 
			 18 to 24 45.50 46.85 
			 25 or over 57.45 59.15 
			
			 Income-based JSA — personal allowances   
			 under 18 34.60 35.65 
			 18 to 24 45.50 46.85 
			 25 or over 57.45 59.15 
			
			 lone parent   
			 under 18 - usual rate 34.60 35.65 
			 under 18 - higher rate payable   
			 in specific circumstances 45.50 46.85 
			 18 or over 57.45 59.15 
			
			 couple   
			 both under 18 34.60 35.65 
			 both under 18, one disabled 45.50 46.85 
			 both under 18, with responsibility for a child 68.65 70.70 
			 one under 18, one 18-24 45.50 46.85 
			 one under 18, one 25 + 57.45 59.15 
			 both 18 or over 90.10 92.80 
			
			 dependent children   
			 from birth to September   
			 following 16th birthday 45.58 47.45 
			 from Sept. following 16th birthday to   
			 day before 20th birthday 45.58 47.45 
			
			 Premiums   
			
			 family 16.25 16.43 
			
			 family (lone parent rate) 16.25 16.43 
			
			 pensioner   
			 single 56.60 59.90 
			 couple 83.95 88.90 
			
			 pensioner (enhanced)   
			 couple 83.95 88.90 
			
			 pensioner (higher)   
			 single 56.60 59.90 
			 couple 83.95 88.90 
			
			 disability   
			 single 24.50 25.25 
			 couple 34.95 36.00 
			 enhanced disability premium single rate 11.95 12.30 
			 disabled child rate 18.13 18.76 
			 couple rate 17.25 17.75 
			
			 severe disability   
			 single 46.75 48.45 
			 couple (lower rate) 46.75 48.45 
			 couple (higher rate) 93.50 96.90 
			
			 disabled child 45.08 46.69 
			 carer 26.35 27.15 
			
			 Housing costs   
			 deductions for non-dependants   
			 aged 25 and over, in receipt of Income Support   
			 or income based Job Seekers Allowance   
			 aged 18 or over, not in remunerative work 7.40 7.40 
			
			 aged 18 or over and in remunerative work   
			 - gross income: less than £111 7.40 7.40 
			 - gross income: £111 to £163.99 17.00 17.00 
			 - gross income: £164 to £212.99 23.35 23.35 
			 - gross income: £213 to £282.99 38.20 38.20 
			 - gross income: £283 to £352.99 43.50 43.50 
			 - gross income: £353 and above 47.75 47.75 
			
			 Deduction for third party payments   
			 Deductions from JSA (IB)   
			 arrears of housing, fuel and water costs   
			 council tax, etc 2.90 3.00 
			
			 Child support maintenance deduction contribution towards maintenance (CTM)   
			 deductions for child maintenance (CTM) standard 5.80 6.00 
			 deductions for child maintenance (CTM) lower 2.90 3.00 
			
			 Arrears of Community Charge   
			 court order against claimant 2.90 3.00 
			
			 court order against couple 4.55 4.65 
			
			 Third party deductions   
			 personal expenses allowance 19.60 20.45 
			
			 Deductions from JSA (Cont.)   
			 Arrears of Comm. Charge, Council Tax, fines and overpayment recovery   
			 Age 16 — 17 11.53 11.88 
			 Age 18 — 24 15.16 15.61 
			 Age 25 + 19.15 19.71 
			 Maximum deduction for arrears of Child Maintenance (CTM)   
			 Age 16 — 17 11.53 11.88 
			 Age 18 — 24 15.16 15.61 
			 Age 25 + 19.15 19.71 
			
			 Third party deduction for fine or compensation order   
			 standard rate 5.00 5.00 
			 lower rate 2.90 3.00 
			
			 Maximum rates for recovery of overpayments in JSA(IB)   
			
			 ordinary overpayments 8.70 9.00 
			
			 where claimant convicted of fraud 11.60 12.00 
			
			 Prescribed sum for strikers 31.00 32.00 
			
			 Capital   
			 upper limit 16,000.00 16,000.00 
			 amount disregarded 6,000.00 6,000.00 
			 Child's limit 3,000.00 3,000.00 
			 upper limit (RC/NH) 16,000.00 16,000.00 
			 amount disregarded (RC/NH) 10,000.00 10,000.00 
			 upper limit (partner 60 or over) 16,000.00 16,000.00 
			 amount disregarded (partner 60 or over) 6,000.00 6,000.00 
			
			 Tariff income   
			 £1 for every complete £250 or part   
			 thereof between amount of capital   
			 disregarded and capital upper limit   
			
			 Disregards   
			 standard earnings 5.00 5.00 
			 couples earnings 10.00 10.00 
			 higher earnings 20.00 20.00 
			 war disablement pension and war   
			 widow's pension 10.00 10.00 
			 Armed Forces Compensation Scheme 10.00 10.00 
			 student loan 10.00 10.00 
			 student's covenanted income 5.00 5.00 
			 income from boarders:   
			 disregard the fixed amount (£20) plus   
			 50% of the balance of the charge 20.00 20.00 
			
			 Expenses for subtenants   
			 furnished or unfurnished 4.00 4.00 
			 where heating is included, additional 11.95 15.45 
			
			 Maternity Allowance   
			 Standard rate 108.85 112.75 
			 MA threshold 30.00 30.00 
			
			 Pension Credit   
			
			 Standard minimum guarantee   
			 single 114.05 119.05 
			 couple 174.05 181.70 
			
			 Additional amount for severe disability   
			 single 46.75 48.45 
			 couple (one qualifies) 46.75 48.45 
			 couple (both qualify) 93.50 96.90 
			
			 Additional amount for carers 26.35 27.15 
			
			 Savings credit   
			 threshold - single 84.25 87.30 
			 threshold - couple 134.75 139.60 
			 maximum - single 17.88 19.05 
			 maximum - couple 23.58 25.26 
			
			 Capital   
			 Amount disregard 6,000.00 6,000.00 
			 Amount disregard - care homes 10,000.00 10,000.00 
			
			 Deemed income   
			 £1 for each complete £500 or part   
			 thereof in excess of above amounts   
			
			 Housing costs   
			 Deduction for non-dependents   
			 - aged 18 or over, in receipt of IS/JSA(IB) and over 25   
			  7.40 7.40 
			 - aged 18 or over and in work:   
			 aged 18 or over and in remunerative work   
			 - gross income: less than £111 7.40 7.40 
			 - gross income: £111 to £163.99 17.00 17.00 
			 - gross income: £164 to £212.99 23.35 23.35 
			 - gross income: £213 to £282.99 38.20 38.20 
			 - gross income: £283 to £352.99 43.50 43.50 
			 - gross income: £353 and above 47.75 47.75 
			
			 Amount for claimant and first spouse in 174.05 181.70 
			 polygamous marriage   
			 Additional amount for additional spouse 60.00 62.65 
			
			 Disregards   
			 Standard earnings 5.00 5.00 
			 Couples earnings 10.00 10.00 
			 Higher earnings 20.00 20.00 
			 War disablement pension and   
			 War widows pension 10.00 10.00 
			 Armed Forces Compensation Scheme 10.00 10.00 
			 Widowed Parent's Allowance 10.00 10.00 
			 Income from subtenants 20.00 20.00 
			 Income from boarders 20.00 20.00 
			 (disregard the fixed amount (£20) plus   
			 50% of the balance of the charge)   
			
			 Third Party Deductions   
			 arrears of housing, fuel, water costs 2.90 3.00 
			 council tax etc   
			
			 Child support maintenance deduction contribution towards maintenance (CTM)   
			 deductions for child maintenance (CTM) standard 5.80 6.00 
			 deductions for child maintenance (CTM) lower 2.90 3.00 
			
			 Arrears of Community Charge   
			 court order against claimant 2.90 3.00 
			
			 court order against couple 4.55 4.65 
			
			 Maximum rates of recovery of overpayments   
			 - ordinary overpayments 8.70 9.00 
			
			 - where claimant convicted of fraud 11.60 12.00 
			
			 Third party deductions 19.60 20.45 
			 personal expenses allowance   
			 Third party deduction for fine or compensation order   
			 standard rate 5.00 5.00 
			 lower rate 2.90 3.00 
			
			 Pneumoconiosis, Byssinosis, and Miscellaneous Diseases Scheme   
			 and The Workmen's Compensation (Supplementation)   
			 Total disablement allowance and major   
			 incapacity allowance (maximum) 127.10 131.70 
			
			 Partial disablement allowance 46.95 48.65 
			
			 Unemployability supplement 78.50 81.35 
			 plus where appropriate increases   
			 for early incapacity   
			 higher rate 16.50 17.10 
			 middle rate 10.60 11.00 
			 lower rate 5.30 5.50 
			
			 Constant attendance allowance   
			 exceptional rate 101.80 105.40 
			 intermediate rate 76.35 79.05 
			 normal maximum rate 50.90 52.70 
			 part-time rate 25.45 26.35 
			
			 Exceptionally severe disablement allowance 50.90 52.70 
			
			 Lesser incapacity allowance   
			 maximum rate of allowance 46.95 48.65 
			 based on loss of earnings over 62.25 64.50 
			
			
			 State Pension   
			 Category A or B 84.25 87.30 
			 Category B(lower) — husband's insurance 50.50 52.30 
			 Category C or D - non-contributory 50.50 52.30 
			 Category C (lower) - non-contributory 30.20 31.30 
			
			 Additional pension  Increase by: 
			   3.6% 
			
			 Increments to:-  Increase by: 
			 Basic pension  3.6% 
			 Additional pension  3.6% 
			 Graduated Retirement Benefit (GRB)  3.6% 
			 Inheritable lump sum  3.6% 
			
			 Contracted-out Deduction from AP in respect of  Nil 
			 pre-April 1988 contracted-out earnings   
			
			 Contracted-out Deduction from AP in respect of   
			 contracted-out earnings from April 1988 to 1997  3.0% 
			
			 Graduated Retirement Benefit (unit) 0.1020 0.1057 
			
			 Graduated Retirement Benefit (Inherited)  Increase by: 
			   3.6% 
			
			 Addition at age 80 0.25 0.25 
			
			 Severe Disablement Allowance   
			 Basic rate 47.45 49.15 
			
			 Age-related addition (from December 90)   
			 Higher rate 16.50 17.10 
			 Middle rate 10.60 11.00 
			 Lower rate 5.30 5.50 
			
			 Statutory Adoption Pay   
			
			 Earnings threshold 84.00 87.00 
			 Standard Rate 108.85 112.75 
			 Statutory Maternity Pay   
			 Earnings threshold 84.00 87.00 
			 Standard rate 108.85 112.75 
			
			 Statutory Paternity Pay   
			
			 Earnings threshold 84.00 87.00 
			 Standard Rate 108.85 112.75 
			
			 Statutory Sick Pay   
			 Earnings threshold 84.00 87.00 
			 Standard rate 70.05 72.55 
			
			 Widow's Benefit   
			
			 Widowed mother's allowance 84.25 87.30 
			
			 Widow's pension   
			 standard rate 84.25 87.30 
			
			 age-related   
			 age 54 (49) 78.35 81.19 
			 53 (48) 72.46 75.08 
			 52 (47) 66.56 68.97 
			 51 (46) 60.66 62.86 
			 50 (45) 54.76 56.75 
			 49 (44) 48.87 50.63 
			 48 (43) 42.97 44.52 
			 47 (42) 37.07 38.41 
			 46 (41) 31.17 32.30 
			 45 (40) 25.28 26.19 
			
			 Note: For deaths occurring before 11 April 1988   
			 refer to age-points shown in brackets.   
			
			
			 Bereavement Benefit   
			
			 Bereavement payment (lump sum) 2,000.00 2,000.00 
			
			 Widowed parent's allowance 84.25 87.30 
			
			 Bereavement Allowance   
			 standard rate 84.25 87.30 
			
			 age-related   
			 age 54 78.35 81.19 
			 53 72.46 75.08 
			 52 66.56 68.97 
			 51 60.66 62.86 
			 50 54.76 56.75 
			 49 48.87 50.63 
			 48 42.97 44.52 
			 47 37.07 38.41 
			 46 31.17 32.30 
			 45 25.28 26.19

WORK AND PENSIONS

Employment, Social Policy Health and  Consumer Affairs Council

James Plaskitt: The Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council was held on 1 December in Brussels. My hon. Friend, the Minister for Pension Reform and the Minister with responsibility for employment relations and London, my hon. Friend the Member for Poplar and Canning Town (Jim Fitzpatrick) represented the UK. Health and consumer affairs issues were taken on 30 November.
	There was a debate on the Commission's recently adopted Green Paper on Labour Law. Commissioner Valdimir Spidla said member states had to reform their labour markets further to adapt to the challenges and opportunities of globalisation. The increased use of new forms of flexible contract had many advantages for both employees and employers, but could also lead to more vulnerability for workers and segmentation of the labour market. All member states welcomed the debate and my hon. Friend the Member for Poplar and Canning Town, emphasised the importance of subsidiarity in this area; there was no one labour model which could be universally applied to all member states, and reforms had to be carried out by member states themselves, although the EU could have added value by encouraging best practice.
	A number of member states took the opportunity to raise the working time directive amending certain aspects of the organisation of working time. My hon. Friend highlighted the UK's priorities of a solution for member states with problems caused by the European Court of Justice rulings on SiMAP and Jaeger and the retention of the individual opt out without unnecessary restrictions.
	The Finnish presidency introduced its progress report on the proposal for a directive of the European Parliament and of the Council on improving the portability of supplementary pension rights. The latest text provided for the vesting and preservation but not transfer of mobile workers' pension rights. There were limited exemptions for unstable schemes or rescue funds, and the possibility of up to 10 years for implementation. The Commission accepted the need for compromise, but if transfers were to be excluded then preservation of rights should receive more attention. Any exemptions must be very tightly drawn and the transposition period could be shorter. My hon. Friend the Minister for Pensions Reform said the United Kingdom could support the aim of improving worker mobility. However, this should not be achieved at the expense of damaging or deterring supplementary pensions, or hampering pension reforms. It made sense to remove transfers from the ambit of the directive, given the widespread problems and a light touch would be needed in on the preservation of dormant rights. Some restrictions of the kind foreseen would be essential for good financial management, but the criteria for opt-outs should be strict.
	The presidency announced that it had been agreed during the lunchtime discussion that Vilnius (Lithuania) would host the seat of the European Gender Institute.
	The Commission presented its recent communication on demography and the Social Protection Committee's opinion on it.
	The presidency confirmed that agreement had been reached with the European Parliament on the Daphne programme on violence against children, young people and women, The UK supported the ideas to tackle the social causes and impacts of human trafficking, which are in line with the Commission's priorities.
	The Council reached agreement on a partial general approach on the pensions chapter of a new implementing regulation for social security co-ordination regulation 883/04. The UK maintained its parliamentary scrutiny reserve. A partial general approach was also agreed on a corresponding set of amendments to Annex XI of regulation 883/04.
	The Council adopted conclusions on decent work; the Beijing platform for action; and men and gender equality. There was a short presentation and discussion of the Employment Committee opinion on higher productivity and more and better jobs. The Council also noted an Opinion from the Social Protection Committee on Social Services of General Interest.
	Specifically, it sets out:
	the health and service priorities for the year ahead;
	the next steps in reform and why these are important; and
	the financial objectives.
	The document also stresses the need for primary care trusts need to work with local authorities to improve health and well-being, reduce inequalities and achieve a shift towards prevention.